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10 Best Japanese Knives 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
imarku Japanese Chef Knife - Sharp Kitchen Knife 8 Inch Chef's Knives HC Steel Paring Knife, Unique Gifts for Men and Women, Christmas Gifts for Mom or Dad, Kitchen Gadgets with Premium Gift Box
The imarku Japanese Chef Knife is an 8-inch multipurpose kitchen knife designed to handle a variety of tasks from slicing vegetables to cutting meat and even removing bones. Its blade is made from high-carbon stainless steel with a carbon content of 0.6-0.75%, making it tougher and more durable than many standard kitchen knives. The blade is sharp, with a hardness rating of 56-58 on the Rockwell scale, which means it holds an edge well and stays sharp through regular use. The blade’s corrosion resistance is improved by added chromium, so it won’t easily rust or dull, even if used frequently or washed in a dishwasher.
Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,277
Weight and Balance
Handle Material
Most important from
18810 reviews
#2
Matsato Chef Knife - Perfect Kitchen Knive for Cooking, Chopping. Japanese Steel Knife for Home, BBQ. For Balance & Control, 6.3 Inch
The Matsato Chef Knife stands out as a versatile and well-crafted tool suitable for both home cooks and professional chefs. Its blade is made of high-quality stainless steel, which promises durability and sharpness, reducing the likelihood of dulling or chipping over time. The blade length of 6.2 inches makes it a practical choice for various kitchen tasks, from chopping vegetables to slicing meats.
Rating
8.5
Weight and Balance
Most important from
6899 reviews
Top 10 Best Japanese Knives 2025 in the United States
#1
Winner
imarku Japanese Chef Knife - Sharp Kitchen Knife 8 Inch Chef's Knives HC Steel Paring Knife, Unique Gifts for Men and Women, Christmas Gifts for Mom or Dad, Kitchen Gadgets with Premium Gift Box
imarku Japanese Chef Knife - Sharp Kitchen Knife 8 Inch Chef's Knives HC Steel Paring Knife, Unique Gifts for Men and Women, Christmas Gifts for Mom or Dad, Kitchen Gadgets with Premium Gift Box
Blade Material: High Carbon Stainless Steel
Blade Type: Plain
Blade Length: 8 Inches
Handle Material: Pakka wood
Weight and Balance: 6.6 ounces
Chosen by 1277 this week
Matsato Chef Knife - Perfect Kitchen Knive for Cooking, Chopping. Japanese Steel Knife for Home, BBQ. For Balance & Control, 6.3 Inch
Matsato Chef Knife - Perfect Kitchen Knive for Cooking, Chopping. Japanese Steel Knife for Home, BBQ. For Balance & Control, 6.3 Inch
Blade Material: Stainless Steel
Blade Type: Plain
Blade Length: 6.2 Inches
Handle Material: Wood
Weight and Balance: 6.2 ounces, good balance
Miyabi Birchwood GS2 7-pc Knife Block Set
Miyabi Birchwood GS2 7-pc Knife Block Set
Blade Material: High Carbon Stainless Steel
Blade Type: Ice-hardened CRYODUR, 101-layer Damascus
Handle Material: Karelian Birchwood
Edge Angle: 9.5 to 12 degrees
Weight and Balance: 7 pounds, balanced
MAC Knife Professional series 8" Chef's knife w/dimples MTH-80
MAC Knife Professional series 8" Chef's knife w/dimples MTH-80
Blade Material: Alloy Steel
Blade Type: Hollow
Blade Length: 8 inches
Handle Material: Pakka wood
Weight and Balance: 10 ounces
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Global 8 Piece Knife Set with Bamboo Block
Global 8 Piece Knife Set with Bamboo Block
Blade Material: Cromova 18 high carbon steel
Blade Type: Straight
Blade Length: 3.5" to 8.5"
Handle Material: Stainless Steel
Edge Angle: 15-degree double bevel
Weight and Balance: Balanced by sand in handle
Global Osaka 6 Piece Knife Block Set
Global Osaka 6 Piece Knife Block Set
Blade Material: CROMOVA 18 stainless steel
Blade Type: various blade types
Blade Length: 3- to 8-inch
Handle Material: Stainless Steel
Weight and Balance: 2.8 pounds, lightweight balance
#10
Global 8-Inch Chef's Knife – Lightweight Japanese Stainless Steel, Razor-Sharp Edge, Made in Japan, G-2
Global 8-Inch Chef's Knife – Lightweight Japanese Stainless Steel, Razor-Sharp Edge, Made in Japan, G-2
Blade Material: molybdenum/vanadium stainless steel
Blade Type: Plain
Blade Length: 8 Inches
Handle Material: Stainless Steel
Weight and Balance: 7.8 oz, well-balanced
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Buying Guide for the Best Japanese Knives
Choosing the right Japanese knife can significantly enhance your cooking experience. Japanese knives are known for their precision, sharpness, and craftsmanship. When selecting a Japanese knife, it's important to consider various factors to ensure you get the best fit for your needs. Here are some key specifications to help you make an informed decision.Blade MaterialThe blade material is crucial as it affects the knife's sharpness, durability, and ease of maintenance. Common materials include high-carbon steel, stainless steel, and Damascus steel. High-carbon steel is extremely sharp and holds an edge well but requires more maintenance to prevent rust. Stainless steel is more resistant to rust and easier to maintain but may not hold an edge as long. Damascus steel combines the best of both worlds with a beautiful pattern and excellent performance. Choose high-carbon steel if you prioritize sharpness and are willing to maintain it, stainless steel for ease of care, and Damascus steel for a balance of both.
Blade TypeJapanese knives come in various blade types, each designed for specific tasks. Common types include Gyuto (chef's knife), Santoku (all-purpose knife), Nakiri (vegetable knife), and Deba (fish knife). The Gyuto is versatile and can handle most tasks, making it a great all-around choice. The Santoku is also versatile but excels in slicing, dicing, and chopping. The Nakiri is perfect for cutting vegetables with precision, while the Deba is ideal for filleting fish. Choose a blade type based on the primary tasks you perform in the kitchen.
Blade LengthBlade length affects the knife's maneuverability and suitability for different tasks. Common lengths range from 6 to 12 inches. Shorter blades (6-8 inches) offer better control and are ideal for tasks like chopping vegetables or slicing smaller items. Longer blades (9-12 inches) provide more cutting surface and are better for slicing larger items like meat or fish. Consider the size of your kitchen space and the types of food you typically prepare when choosing the blade length.
Handle MaterialThe handle material impacts the knife's comfort, grip, and durability. Common materials include wood, plastic, and composite. Wooden handles offer a traditional look and feel but may require more maintenance to prevent cracking. Plastic handles are durable and easy to clean but may lack the aesthetic appeal of wood. Composite handles combine the best of both, offering durability and a comfortable grip. Choose a handle material that feels comfortable in your hand and suits your maintenance preferences.
Edge AngleThe edge angle determines the sharpness and cutting performance of the knife. Japanese knives typically have a sharper edge angle (around 15 degrees) compared to Western knives (around 20 degrees). A sharper edge angle allows for more precise and effortless cutting but may require more frequent sharpening. If you prioritize precision and are comfortable with regular maintenance, opt for a sharper edge angle. If you prefer less maintenance, a slightly wider angle may be more suitable.
Weight and BalanceThe weight and balance of a knife affect its ease of use and comfort. Japanese knives are generally lighter and more balanced than Western knives, allowing for more precise control. A well-balanced knife will feel comfortable in your hand and reduce fatigue during extended use. Test the knife's weight and balance by holding it and mimicking cutting motions. Choose a knife that feels comfortable and well-balanced to ensure a pleasant cooking experience.